Beards Family Medical Costs

The Hamilton District was dealt a gut wrenching blow in early July, when Robert Beards, one of our long time drivers, was diagnosed with Lung Cancer.

Rob was unexpectedly diagnosed with heart passage issues and Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT) in early 2024. As he dealt with preparing for surgery and healing, he contracted Pneumonia in early May. When the Pneumonia didn’t clear and Rob’s health seemed to be degrading, Rob was given the news that hiding behind his Pneumonia was Lung Cancer. Through all of this time, Rob was away from work sporadically but not on leave, tapping out the families savings.

Rob’s prognosis involves full cancer treatment with Chemo/Radiation and a let’s see approach as it has also spread elsewhere in his body. Rob is now on leave and Rob’s wife Tracey, also a Waste Connections employee is by his side for the treatment process. Along with substantial lost wages, they will also face multiple expenses related to day long hospital visits for treatment as well as home care where required.

Rob, a quiet leader, is very much respected by his fellow drivers and the whole team in Hamilton. The skill and work ethic Rob brings to work every day is something for the most part that is unheard of. Being away from work for Rob, isn’t just a financial blow, its robbing him in part of who he is and we all feel this heavily in our hearts.

We are organizing this fundraiser to show support to Rob and his family while they navigate his treatment path in hopes that this may help take a small burden off his shoulders.